Report: Rockets interested in drafting Grayson Allen

The NBA Draft is less than 24 hours away. With the Rockets being one game away from the NBA Finals this past season, the draft could be more of an afterthought for the team as their focus seems to be on retaining their core and chasing big fish this summer.

However, Kelly Iko of USA Today has reported that the Rockets are impressed with Grayson Allen and are looking to move up in the draft to select him, fearing he will be selected before their 46th pick. Iko's report said the organization is looking to find youth to help the rather veteran crew that was in the Western Conference Finals.

Multiple sources have confirmed to me that Houston wants to get younger, interested in Duke's Grayson Allen. Story: https://t.co/LDmyoLP15O

Allen was one of the more popular players during his career at Duke with both his on-court play and antics. He is coming off a senior year with averages of 15.5 PPG, 4.6 APG and 3.3 RPG while shooting 37 percent from three. His sophomore campaign was Allen's best season statistically, averaging 21.6 PPG and shooting 41.7 percent from the perimeter.

Allen's been heavily criticized for his on-court antics, constantly being criticized for his tripping of players that many felt was intentional. He also had a breakdown in the middle of a timeout once, which seemed to turn some off.

It will be interesting to see what happens Thursday night. Allen could have a positive impact for the Rockets as he can shoot the three-ball and distribute well. He averaged a career high 4.6 APG this past season at Duke.

Players who stay in school longer before entering the NBA sometimes are more seasoned and ready to contribute at the NBA level. All of that put together could have the Rockets making Allen a target Thursday night.